The world’s first 3D-printed rocket, Terran 1, is about to attempt its third launch after failing in its first two attempts due to problems with its fuel pressure. The first and second launches, which were on March 8 and 11, were both unsuccessful due to issues with propellant temperature and fuel pressure. This rocket costs less to make and launch than its competitors because it is 3D printed.
On March 8, the Terran 1 took off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, for the first time. The rocket’s launch was canceled at the last minute because of problems with the propellant’s temperature.
On March 11, a second launch was announced, but the launch was unsuccessful due to fuel pressure issues with the rocket.
The American company that developed this three-dimensional rocket, Relativity Space, hopes that this will be the lucky third launch.
The Terran 1 is programmed to reach low Earth orbit in eight minutes after taking off, demonstrating the endurance of 3D printed rockets during spaceflight.
This first flight made by the Terran 1 will convey no payload, but the rocket is said to have a payload conveying limit of 1,250 kilograms.
Metal alloys are used to 3D print 85 percent of the rocket, which is 110 feet tall and has nine engines called Aeon 1 on it.
The rocket, which was constructed using the largest 3D printers in the world and took 60 days to build, is said to be the largest 3D printed object.
According to Relativity, the company aims to produce 95 percent 3D printed rockets because, in comparison to conventional rockets, 3D printed rockets can be constructed in a shorter amount of time and require 100 times fewer components.
